William Smithoover

 

856-540-6200 x-2176

THE PENNSVILLE PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT’S

SUBSTANCE AWARENESS COORDINATOR/

STUDENT ASSISTANCE COUNSELOR

  

The Board of Education employs a certified Substance Awareness Coordinator/ Student Assistance Counselor who directs and overseas the following programs outlined below.

INTERVENTION

Take referrals from staff of students with possible D & A issues.

Refer students and parents to sources of help with in the School District.

Refer students and parents to sources of help with in the surrounding communities. This includes private, community and public health sources.

Monitor and council students to develop strategies that diminish obstacles to their success.

Maintain contact and student referrals with the School Based Youth Services Program.
 
Lend services as a resource person to CST for problems of special needs students.

PREVENTION

The Pennsville Teen Institute - A leadership and wellness program for High School and Middle School students who believe in leading a drug free life.

DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) A specially trained Pennsville Police Officer presents the DARE program to 5th grade students and is available to support students of all ages who may have questions or life problems.

Periodic assemblies for students.

Red Ribbon Week.  Pennsville is part of a nationwide effort to show we support a drug free America.

Member of the Pennsville Municipal Alliance for the Prevention of Substance Abuse (MAPSA).This community based committee supports a variety of drug prevention initiatives including a Youth Drop In Center for Grades 5 – HS.

Project Graduation.  A committee of motivated parents who plan a late night drug and alcohol free graduation party.

Golden Eagles. This is the recognition of the “well rounded student” who maintains above average grades and is involved in a variety of school activities. Students who may qualify apply at the end of their Junior year.

Review and suggest updating of District drug policies.

Attend various professional meetings to stay current in the field.

Attend weekly guidance meetings at the M.S. and H.S. These meetings offer an opportunity to discuss ways of helping students that may be experience difficulties. Staff, students and parents may suggest help for students with concerns.

Periodically survey student body relative to D & A issues. Over the years of assessment we consistently see that our students experience approximately the same level of use as do the State and the Nation.